Yadang: The Snitch Review

The police and criminals go hand in hand; one cannot exist without the other—it’s a symbiotic relationship. However, this dynamic is typically explored from only two perspectives in most media. For example, in Heat, the story unfolds through the eyes of the cops and the robbers. Yadang: The Snitch offers a fresh take, examining this relationship from a third angle: that of a snitch. As a broker of information between criminals and the police, a snitch can play a pivotal role in the fight against crime. This role is front and centre in Yadang: The Snitch, but the film goes even further, delivering a truly thrilling experience.

We follow Lee Kang-soo (Kang Ha-neul), a man falsely accused and convicted of drug possession after a taxi ride takes a wrong turn. While in prison, he catches the attention of prosecutor Koo Gwan-hee (Yoo Hae-jin), a man who, after ten years on the job, has barely advanced in his career. Seeing potential in Lee, Koo offers him a deal: become a yadang (informant) and help dismantle the drug ring operating inside the prison in exchange for a reduced sentence. Lee seizes the opportunity and begins collaborating with Koo to bring down the network.

Years . Lee becomes a seasoned yadang, and Koo rises through the ranks of the prosecution, bolstered by the major busts enabled by Lee’s intelligence. But their partnership faces new pressure when Detective Oh Sang-jae (Park Hae-joon) begins to suspect the connection between them.

To reveal more of the film’s narrative would be a disservice, as Yadang: The Snitch’s greatest strength lies in its story. For the first twenty minutes, it plays like a buddy comedy, centering on a charismatic snitch and a righteous prosecutor, filled with laughs and over-the-top hijinks. Gradually, it shifts into a darker, more complex crime thriller, delving into political corruption and the notion that power can be as addictive—and as destructive—as meth. This tonal shift is gradual and well-earned, thanks to how effectively each narrative beat is set up. Yadang: The Snitch also features numerous twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Kang Ha-neul delivers a magnetic performance as Lee Kang-soo, transforming a down-on-his-luck young man into a confident, cunning figure while still grounding the character with emotional depth—especially in his lowest moments. One particularly effective acting choice is the slight stutter Kang gives Lee during moments of lost confidence, a subtle but powerful detail. Yoo Hae-jin also excels as Koo Gwan-hee, portraying a once-principled man slowly consumed by the power he’s accumulated. His unraveling is captivating, especially as he begins to orchestrate a desperate plan to retain control at any cost.

Like its lead, Yadang: The Snitch is brimming with style and confidence, evident in its creative editing, well-choreographed action sequences, and nail-biting tension. It’s surprising to learn this is only Hwang Byeong-gug’s third feature. Paired with Hyo-seok Kim’s clever and dynamic script, Hwang’s direction results in a film bursting with personality—crafted like something from a filmmaker with decades of experience.

That said, the film isn’t without flaws. While the narrative is strong overall, there’s a noticeable plot hole in the transition from the second to the third act. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s hard to ignore the questionable logic behind why a crucial video couldn’t simply be ed to Google Drive or another platform, instead of relying on the increasingly strained idea that the phone must be physically protected at all costs. It’s a puzzling decision, especially since the film previously demonstrated a clear awareness of the capabilities and limitations of modern recording technology.

Filled with twists and turns, captivating performances, and overflowing with confidence, Yadang: The Snitch is a stellar South Korean thriller that deserves your attention. It’s a gripping ride from beginning to end—and easily one of the best films of the year.